Sports Minister Tracey Crouch welcomed yesterday Fifa’s decision to “apply some common sense” and back down on its ban of players wearing poppies in international matches.

Last year, all four home nations were fined by football’s world governing body for ignoring its ban on players wearing slogans or symbols which are considered to be personal, political or religious.

But last week Fifa issued clearer guidelines on the relevant law to its 211 member associations, with more flexibility given to what may constitute a “political” message.

In short, players may now wear poppies in games to commemorate their nation’s war dead providing their opponents have approved it and they have informed the match organisers.

Crouch said: “I am pleased that it appears Fifa is finally going to apply common sense and change its position on poppies.

“It is completely right that footballers and fans alike should be able to wear poppies with pride, as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of our servicemen and women.”

Shadow sports minister Dr Rosena Allin-Khan agreed, describing it as “an utterly ridiculous decision in the first place.”

Dr Allin-Khan added: “I reaffirm my view that Fifa need to get its own house in order before throwing the rule book at nations paying their respects to those who have died during war.”

Fifa’s climbdown, which still has to be formally ratified by the game’s law-making body, the International Football Association Board, brings an end to a remarkable spat with the British FAs, led by the English Football Association.

Last December, the FA was fined £35,000 and the Scottish FA £15,000 for the commemoration activities that took place before and during the England-Scotland World Cup qualifier at Wembley on November 11, Armistice Day.